Dubai hotels, United Arab Emirates

Where to stay for luxury in Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is the epitome of luxury, with its towering skyscrapers and proximity to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. This area is ideal for those looking to indulge in opulence while staying in the heart of the action. Expect to find top-tier hotels offering panoramic city views, world-class dining, and easy access to high-end shopping.

The Palm Jumeirah

For those who dream of staying on a man-made island, The Palm Jumeirah offers some of the most luxurious accommodations in Dubai. This iconic palm-shaped archipelago is home to lavish resorts with private beaches, infinity pools, and unparalleled service. It's perfect for travelers who want to combine luxury with a unique experience, all while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a hotspot for luxury combined with beachside relaxation. The area's premium hotels provide direct beach access, upscale amenities, and a vibrant atmosphere. With its lively promenade, The Walk, JBR offers a myriad of dining and shopping options, making it a favorite for those who want a blend of luxury and leisure.

Where to stay for families in Dubai

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a family-friendly haven with its mix of residential and hotel options, offering spacious accommodations and kid-friendly facilities. The area boasts a scenic waterfront, plenty of dining choices, and recreational activities that cater to all ages. It's an ideal spot for families seeking a lively environment with a touch of tranquility.

Al Barsha

Al Barsha is a fantastic choice for families looking for convenience and value. This area offers a range of family-friendly hotels and easy access to attractions like the Mall of the Emirates and its indoor ski resort. With parks and a quieter atmosphere, Al Barsha provides a comfortable and practical base for families exploring Dubai.

Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is perfect for families wanting to stay close to the sea while enjoying a variety of activities. The area is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and family-oriented hotels that offer activities for children. It's a picturesque and relaxed setting ideal for a family vacation.

Where to stay for nightlife in Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai isn't just about luxury shopping and iconic landmarks; it's also a buzzing nightlife hub. With a plethora of stylish bars, nightclubs, and rooftop lounges, Downtown Dubai ensures a vibrant and unforgettable nightlife experience. It's the perfect place to stay for those who want to party in style.

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina offers a lively nightlife scene with its array of chic bars and clubs, many of which boast stunning views over the water. This area is perfect for travelers looking to enjoy a night out in a dynamic and sophisticated setting, with plenty of dining and entertainment options nearby.

Business Bay

Business Bay may be known for its corporate atmosphere during the day, but by night, it transforms into a lively district with trendy bars and clubs. It's a great spot for those who want to combine business with pleasure, offering a vibrant nightlife scene just a stone's throw from downtown.

Where to stay for beach access in Dubai

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a prime location for those seeking direct beach access. With its stunning shoreline and a range of beachfront hotels, JBR provides the perfect setting for beach lovers. Enjoy the sun, sand, and a lively promenade filled with shops and eateries.

The Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah offers a unique beach experience with its luxurious resorts boasting private beaches. The island's crescent shape provides a serene and exclusive atmosphere, making it a top choice for those wanting a premium beach getaway with all the bells and whistles.

Umm Suqeim

Umm Suqeim is home to some of Dubai's most beautiful public beaches, offering stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab. This area is perfect for those who want a more laid-back beach experience, with a selection of hotels that provide easy access to the sand and sea.

Where to stay for convenience in Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is the ultimate choice for convenience, with its central location and proximity to major attractions like the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. Staying here means you'll have everything at your fingertips, from dining and shopping to entertainment and public transport.

Al Rigga

Al Rigga is a bustling area in Deira known for its convenience and accessibility. With a range of budget-friendly hotels and easy access to public transport, it's a practical choice for travelers wanting to explore Dubai without breaking the bank.

Trade Centre Area

The Trade Centre Area is strategically located near major business hubs and offers a variety of accommodation options. It's ideal for those seeking convenience, with excellent transport links and proximity to both Downtown Dubai and Dubai International Airport.

Where to stay for a cultural experience in Dubai

Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai is a treasure trove of cultural experiences, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history. This area is dotted with traditional markets, museums, and heritage sites, making it perfect for travelers wanting to immerse themselves in Dubai's past while staying in charming hotels.

Deira

Deira is one of Dubai's oldest districts, known for its bustling souks and vibrant street life. Staying here offers a cultural journey, with a range of accommodations that place you right in the heart of traditional Dubai.

Al Fahidi

Al Fahidi is a historic neighborhood that provides a window into Dubai's cultural heritage. With its narrow lanes and restored buildings, this area offers a unique stay for those looking to explore the city's history and enjoy a more authentic experience.

Where to stay for shopping in Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is a shopper's paradise, home to the iconic Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world. Staying here means you'll have access to a vast array of luxury brands, dining, and entertainment options, all within walking distance.

Al Barsha

Al Barsha offers convenience for shoppers, with its proximity to the Mall of the Emirates. This area provides a range of accommodation options, making it a great base for those looking to indulge in shopping sprees and enjoy the nearby attractions.

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina combines shopping with stunning waterfront views. The area's vibrant promenade is lined with shops, boutiques, and eateries, making it a fabulous choice for those wanting a mix of retail therapy and leisure in a picturesque setting.

Where to stay for business travelers in Dubai

Business Bay

Business Bay is a dynamic area tailored for business travelers, with its proximity to major corporate offices and the Dubai International Financial Centre. The area offers a range of business-friendly hotels with excellent facilities, making it ideal for those blending work with leisure.

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)

Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is the heart of business and finance in Dubai. It's an ideal location for business travelers, offering upscale hotels and excellent dining options, along with easy access to key business hubs and transport links.

World Trade Centre Area

The World Trade Centre Area is a prime spot for business travelers, offering proximity to major exhibition and conference venues. With a range of hotels catering to business needs, this area provides the perfect base for professionals attending events or meetings in Dubai.

The 10 must-sees of Dubai

• Burj Khalifa: Capture stunning photos from below or enjoy breathtaking views from this iconic 2,717-foot skyscraper. Don't forget to snap a pic of the Burj Al Arab, another staple of the Dubai skyline.

• Dubai Fountain: With its impressive length that spans more than two football fields and water reaching heights of over 328 feet during its captivating light shows, the Dubai Fountain is a sight to behold.

• Dubai Marina: This picturesque area of the city features a sandy beach, a highly-rated mall, and an amazing skyline view.

• Miracle Garden: This beautifully designed floral haven is one of the most photogenic spots in Dubai – it's like a gardener's Disneyland.

• Dubai Creek: A boat tour along Dubai Creek offers a truly magical experience. The creek is the site of the city's original settlement and is home to a wildlife sanctuary.

• Atlantis Aquaventure & Lost Chambers Aquarium: This massive waterpark boasts exhilarating rides and a dedicated family zone, alongside a large aquarium featuring numerous exhibits and experiences like diving and “underwater” yoga.

• IMG Worlds of Adventure: This theme park is a must-see for fans of Marvel and Cartoon Network.

• Global Village: Explore a vast dining, shopping, and entertainment complex with shows, events, a miniature world, and themed areas representing many famous countries worldwide.

• Deep Dive Dubai: Scuba enthusiasts won't want to miss this chance to explore the world’s deepest indoor dive center.

• Dubai Garden Glow: Discover spectacular sculptures and whimsical displays crafted from colorful lanterns.

Party and nightlife in Dubai

If you’re looking to party the night away in Dubai, you might find that the best nightlife is right within your hotel. Look for hotels and resorts that feature popular clubs and bars, allowing you to book one that matches your vibe. Some of the most renowned clubs where you can dance and party include the lavish Billionaire Mansion, White, Cavalli, and the unique FLOAT venue, which is situated atop the QE2.

Additionally, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the warm late nights in Dubai without putting on your dancing shoes and heading indoors. Many attractions in Dubai stay open late into the night, including Dubai Garden Glow, Global Village, and the Dubai Fountain. Strolling along the corniche or exploring your local neighborhood is a favored evening activity for local families, and you’ll be in great company wandering along the seafront or Dubai Marina, for instance, once the sun sets.

Shopping in Dubai

• Dubai Mall: Features an aquarium & underwater zoo, art museum, cinema, interactive play zone, observation deck, trampoline center, VR experience, and ice rink.

• Mall of the Emirates: Offers an indoor ski experience, theater, Magic Planet, bowling, and a cinema.

• Dubai Outlet Mall: Out-of-town mall focused on finding bargains.

• Nakheel Mall: Indoor mall on Palm Jumeirah.

• Dubai Outlet Village: Italian-inspired indoor mall.

• Dubai Marina Mall: Waterfront shopping and dining destination.

• Bur Dubai Souk Market: Outdoor market by the water selling clothes, gifts, food, and souvenirs.

• Dubai Spice Souk: Spice market.

• Dubai Gold Souk: Jewelry bazaar.

• Waterfront Market: Fish and food market.

Hotels with rooftop bars

Overlooking the serene waters of Dubai Creek, Cielo Sky Lounge at Park Hyatt Dubai offers innovative cocktails, stylish decor, and live music from both local and international DJs. The hotel itself offers a 5-star experience featuring award-winning restaurants, a peaceful spa, and its own golf course.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

For those who enjoy fine dining, the Four Seasons Dubai Jumeirah Beach offers a vast selection with its six restaurants specializing in cuisines ranging from Peruvian to Italian and Japanese to Turkish. For a truly memorable occasion, consider booking a romantic beach dining experience for two.

Spa hotels in Dubai

You might want to set aside an entire day to fully enjoy the opulent spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, which features an astounding 42 treatment rooms. The Ottoman-inspired decor is stunning, and there are unique experiences throughout, including two thalassotherapy rooms and a snow room.

Luxury hotels

In a city filled with luxury accommodations, The Bulgari Resort Dubai stands out. Located on its own island, Jumeirah Bay, it offers amenities for the ultra-wealthy, such as a private marina for superyachts. Enjoy a swim in the gold-tiled pool or shop at the Bulgari jewelry boutique to feel like you’ve truly arrived.